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Discipline and Flow: Dive into the Practice of Ashtanga Yoga
Hey there,
Welcome to another edition in our yoga series! Today we’re exploring Ashtanga Yoga, an invigorating style that follows a set sequence of postures, linking breath with movement in a dynamic flow, making it perfect for those seeking strength, endurance, and mental clarity. Let’s dive in!
Yoga Deep Dive
Discovering Ashtanga Yoga
Known for its fixed sequences, Ashtanga is practiced in six series, each progressively more challenging, allowing practitioners to build strength, flexibility, and focus.
Here’s why Ashtanga Yoga is unique and how it benefits both body and mind:
1. Builds Physical Strength and Stamina
Fixed Sequences: Ashtanga follows a set sequence of poses, gradually building strength and endurance with each practice.
Core and Full-Body Engagement: This style emphasizes core stability and balance, creating a strong and resilient body over time.
2. Improves Focus and Mental Discipline
Structured Flow: Repeating the same sequence helps cultivate a focused, meditative mindset as you become more familiar with each pose.
Breath Control: Ashtanga’s emphasis on breath (Ujjayi breathing) increases mental clarity, concentration, and resilience.
3. Promotes Flexibility and Mobility
Gradual Progression: Ashtanga’s series system allows practitioners to deepen flexibility gradually, respecting the body’s limits and avoiding injury.
Dynamic Movement: The flowing transitions between poses improve joint mobility and full-body flexibility.
4. Encourages Commitment and Growth
Consistency: Ashtanga is traditionally practiced regularly, instilling a sense of dedication and routine that nurtures personal growth.
Self-Awareness: The practice’s intensity requires you to listen to your body, fostering self-discipline and mindfulness.
Who is Ashtanga Yoga Best For?
Ashtanga Yoga is ideal for those seeking a challenging, disciplined practice that strengthens both body and mind. It’s a fantastic choice if you thrive in structured routines and want to deepen both your physical and mental endurance.
Getting Started
Look for classes labeled “Ashtanga” or “Mysore-style” (a self-paced Ashtanga class) to begin your journey. These classes provide guidance through the foundational Primary Series, helping you build strength, discipline, and confidence.
Practice of the Week
Sun Salutation A (Surya Namaskar A)
Sun Salutation A is a key sequence in Ashtanga, serving as a warm-up that builds heat and energizes the body.
How to Practice:
Begin in Mountain Pose, inhale as you reach your arms overhead.
Exhale and fold forward, bringing your hands to the mat.
Inhale to a half lift, exhale to step or jump back into Chaturanga.
Inhale to Upward Dog, exhale to Downward Dog, and hold for 5 breaths.
Step forward, inhale to half lift, exhale to fold, and rise back up to Mountain Pose.
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Yoga in Everyday Life
Building Routine and Discipline
Ashtanga teaches us the power of consistency. Try setting a small daily goal, whether it’s practicing a few poses, meditating, or mindful breathing, and stick with it.
This simple commitment can help bring more focus and discipline to all areas of your life, just as it does on the mat.
That’s it for this week’s exploration of Ashtanga Yoga! This style brings a unique blend of strength, discipline, and focus to your practice.
Curious to try Ashtanga? Check out our Instagram for a guided Sun Salutation and more Ashtanga insights.
Best regards,
The Yoga Daily Team
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